Students Urged to Make a Mark
Leading business strategist inspires girls in Montrose's signature LifePortraits Speaker Series.
On October 20 Montrose welcomed the first LifePortraits speaker of the year, leading marketing strategist Claire Huang. Ms. Huang, most recently Chief Marketing Officer for JPMorgan Chase & Co., inspired students with her challenge to use the benefits of their Montrose education to become leaders in the public square.
In a simple yet powerful analogy, Ms. Huang likened each girl to a pencil, for three reasons: what is important is what’s inside; each one goes through sharpenings, or difficulties; and each one can make a lasting mark. She urged the girls to “make a mark” in their lives, in any number of ways. “There are many ways to have a profound impact - being a mother, helping society, improving the lives of others. Make a mark in whatever you decide to do.”
Inspiring the girls to heed the call to greatness, Ms. Huang observed, “There is a great breadth and depth of talent in this room. You are called to be leaders, not just at Montrose but in the public arena.” As Montrose students, Ms. Huang pointed out, “you have so many people who help you get this wonderful education. And to whom much is given, much is expected.”
Ms. Huang counseled the girls, “Ambition is not a bad word. Fear is.” She admitted that she had been through many transitions, and was afraid each time. Yet her friends, family members and mentors kept advising her to go make a mark.
Ms. Huang built her credentials as a turnaround and growth expert as Vice President of Marketing with Wise Foods; Marketing Chief of The Haagan-Daz Company's North American business; Product Director at Cadbury Schweppes PLC; and in brand management for The Proctor and Gamble Company. Additionally, Ms. Huang founded The Fisherman Foundation, a non-profit organization that helps individuals of modest means become self-sufficient.
Montrose School’s signature LifePortraits Speaker Series was inaugurated by Head of School Dr. Karen Bohlin. The LifePortraits Speaker Series was established to bring to campus speakers whose inspirational stories give witness to faith, character and vision in action.
Ms. Huang's presentation was the first in Montrose School's new, 15,000 square foot Arts & Athletics Center.
Ms. Huang's presentation was the first in Montrose School's new, 15,000 square foot Arts & Athletics Center.
An independent school for girls in grades 6-12
Inspired by the teachings of the Catholic Church
Inspired by the teachings of the Catholic Church
